Customs Seize N273m Worth of Tramadol in Yobe State

The Nigeria Customs Service successfully intercepted 248,500 tablets of tramadol hydrochloride (250 mg) valued at N273.35 million in Yobe State. Abdullahi Ka Ila, the spokesperson for the Customs Control Federal Operations Unit Zone D in Bauchi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday.

The seizure followed meticulous intelligence gathering and collaboration with security agencies, which indicated a possible movement of a large consignment of tramadol through covert routes in Gumsi Village, Nguru Local Government Area. Upon sighting the Customs patrol vehicle, suspects fled into the bush.

This operation is believed to disrupt a major syndicate involved in illicit tramadol trafficking, which extends beyond Nigeria to neighboring countries and international markets. The seizure is expected to significantly impact efforts to curb drug abuse, particularly among vulnerable groups such as youth and students, and to reduce the availability of illicit tramadol in the market.

Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs, emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration and community vigilance in the fight against drug trafficking.